A recently released report by the UnitedHealth Center for Health & Reform Modernization examines the health needs of rural America and how well the healthcare system is able to respond. The paper looks at coverage, access, and quality in rural communities and also outlines recommendations for addressing issues including greater use of telemedicine, expanded roles for nurse practitioners and physician assistants, designing regulations to meet the needs of rural areas, and engaging more rural consumers in improving their health. Read more.